Even when it’s too late, it’s not too late. Find the perfect gift for the petrolhead in your life with our handy guide.
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Project CARS
There’s rarely a shortage of driving games to choose from come Christmas time but Project CARS is a little bit different. Crowd-funded and with input from genuine racers such as Ben Collins and Anthony Hamilton, Project CARS goes for the sim approach; stunning visuals and dynamic weather catch the eye but it’s the sophistication of the dynamics that sets it apart.
Best of all it’s available for PS4, Xbox and PC and is compatible with Occulus Rift if you’re lucky enough to have one. Be prepared to be unpopular by Boxing Day. From £40
2. Gran Turismo 6
It might be the elder statesman in the gaming world but GT6 still has plenty to offer. Polyphony have rolled out a number of updates over the last year, including extra tracks, a whole host of new cars including the Vision Gran Turismo models and even a track creator. £10.99
3. Forza 6
The biggest driving title on Xbox is the still box-fresh Forza, bigger and better than ever. There’s twice as many cars as on Forza 5 with 450 models and new features such as wet-weather and night races. The ‘Drivatar’ computer racers continue, allowing you to race someone who will occasionally be just as daft and unpredictable as an online racer. From £49.99
4. And On That Bombshell by Richard Porter
Ever watched a TV programme called Top Gear? Well millions did every Sunday night for a decade, and if you’ve ever laughed during a 60-minute episode then there’s a very good chance the joke was written by Richard Porter.
As script editor for Top Gear Porter worked closely with May, Hammond and Clarkson and producer Andy Wilman to create the entertainment behemoth that made megastars of the trio and as you might expect from a programme that had some innuendo, Tom Cruise and things catching on fire, there was just as much hilarity happening off-screen. Porter takes you through the troubled beginnings, the behind-the-scenes shennangins and the ideas that never took off. From £9.99
5. Moto GP 2015 Season Review by Julian Ryder
It’s been a tumultuous season in all three levels of MotoGP but this year in particular has been great for British riders, with Danny Kent and Sam Lowes taking victories in Moto3 and Moto2. At the top it was a constant battle between team mates Rossi and Lorenzo, with the latter ultimately claiming the top prize. Published just two weeks after the season end this review covers every race in detail with spectacular photography. £29.99
6. Haynes Cutaway Colouring Owners’ Paintshop Manual
On the one hand it seems absurd that grown adults could be nostalgic about workshop manuals, but they’re an ever-present at some of the most rewarding (and stressful) times you’ve spent underneath a car. They also have a unique and appealing visual style, which is why this latest Haynes offering could be just the ticket for the big kid in your life.
The Cutaway Colour Owners’ Paintshop Manual has 90 meticulously-detailed cutaway drawings for them to pour of – or colour in to their heart’s content. £7.99.
7. Nextbase 402G dashcam
8. Diono Warm ‘N Go
9. Alcosense Pro and Ultra Breathalysers
10. Turtle Wax Gift Bag
11. Karcher Pressure Washer
The easiest way to make a cleaning job easy (and dare it be said, fun) is to use the appropriate power tool, so for cleaning your car or a host of other things around the home and garden the Karcher K7 has it all covered. From £400.
12. Stunt Drive experience
13. Caterham Drift Academy
Caterhams arguably provide the most fun you can have on four wheels, and should you be in the market for a driving experience the same rule applies. The Drift Academy teaches you all about the art of sliding sideways, which also involves plenty of tyre smoke and booting the throttle. You can also try a track driving experience or even hire a Caterham for the public road. From £199.
14. LaFerrari model at 1:8 scale
Is it your dream to own a Ferrari? Well for £5,050 you can – sort of. This model is the perfect gift for fans of the prancing horse marque.
15. Ladies Ferrari Cavallino Rampante bomber jacket, £990
It’s not just the cars that Ferrari get right – their fashion range is definitely worthy of a place in this gift guide too. This leather bomber jacket should be at the top of any petrolhead’s list. Priced £990.